80 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN Alliance Architecture • Land Surveying • Service Location • Health and Safety • Project Management • Resource Consents • Construction Setout • Traffic Management • Civil Engineering Design • Tendering and Estimating Services list ANTONIO CIVIL ENGINEERING LTD ARE SPECIALISTS IN PROVIDING CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES TO CONTRACTORS AND CONSULTANTS. Mobile: (027) 233 1172 | Email: antoniocivil@xtra.co.nz | www.antoniocivil.co.nz antonio civil engineering Julie Evans Ph: 021 053 2011 E: julie@allarch.co.nz www.alliancearchitecture.co.nz CREATING SPACES PEOPLE LOVE Strong skills draw positive response Alliance Architecture’s team of predominantly residential designers specialise in new homes, re-clads and alterations and additions, but also have commercial experience, such as early learning centres. T T Sue Russell “We get a lot of really positive feedback from builders and other subcontractors, who comment on how clear and user-friendly the drawings are....” West Auckland-based Alliance Architecture is run by Julie Evans, a founding partner in the business, and Susi Thomson, and together they are creating spaces that people love. Established in 2013, Alliance Architecture has worked closely over many years with several local builders and, more recently, with Signature Construction on Kainga Ora’s social housing projects comprising stand-alone homes, duplexes, terraces and three-storey walk-ups. “We’ve enjoyed developing a good working relationship with Signature Construction,” says Julie. “Susi looks after our team of CAD technicians. Susi emigrated from South Africa, and using her very strong technical background, has implemented excellent systems producing comprehensive drawing sets that move smoothly through council’s consenting processes. “We get a lot of really positive feedback from builders and other subcontractors, who comment on how clear and user-friendly the drawings are, and Signature Construction have commended us on the speed and quality of drawings produced. “Reputation is everything, so we work diligently to maintain these core strengths of the business. Once you’ve established a good name for yourself and stick to that standard, then you will get returning clients and referrals.” Alliance Architecture’s team of predominantly residential designers specialise in new homes, re-clads and alterations and additions, but also have commercial experience, such as early learning centres. They enjoy working with developers to optimise their property investments, and have found it best to be involved from initial concept designs and feasibility studies right through to the final approved building consent. “Residential is a lot more personal and subjective. I just love architecture and enjoy working with clients to create their dream spaces,” Julie says. “In my former adventure tourism career, I honed customer service, communication and cross-cultural skills, and with extensive travel gained a deep understanding of the environment. For me, engagement and collaboration are key.” The conversation always begins with a visit to the site, or at the client’s home. Julie says clients often have a broad view of what they want, but have difficulty translating this into a concept plan that makes their project come to life. “Renovations can be stressful as one is spending a considerable sum of money, so nothing should be taken lightly. I always take the time to understand the client’s wishes and do my best to make the wish-list match their budget goals.” Julie has first-hand experience in this, as she recently rebuilt her own home in Piha “I spent my life savings on my home and understand the huge commitment our clients are making to a home that matters so much to them.” The original 1980s’ house had a 45sqm masonry block base and an upper level of the same size. Now proudly boasting 131sqm, it features expansive decks taking in the varying outlooks. The upper floor was extensively redesigned to take advantage of the 270° sea views up and down the west coast. Large picture windows bring the outdoors in and maximise the beautiful coastal views and sunsets. The open-plan kitchen, living and dining area connects seamlessly to a sheltered westerly deck with extended roof cover and side wall providing protection from prevailing winds. New stunning bathrooms have been added on both levels at the rear of the building, and the entire building was re-roofed and re-clad, resulting in a contemporary-looking home. “The construction phase is always daunting, but it went very smoothly. Sanders Construction, a leading local building company, have been a vital component and I really couldn’t be happier with the outcome.”
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=